|
In Failure to Launch
McConaughey plays Trip, a 35-year-old playboy still living with his
parents who are ready for him to leave. So, they hire Paula (Sarah
Jessica Parker) to do the dirty work for them by seducing Trip into
falling for her. Trip’s parents (played by Kathy Bates and Terry
Bradshaw) could just kick him out, but as we learn later, they have
their reasons. Unfortunately, the reasons don’t make sense, just
like the story. But before I bury this film too deeply, let’s
skip the fact that the plot is a flop and talk about characters and
gags.
Trip has two still-at-home buddies who totally
agree with Trip’s philosophy of dumping every girl before things
get too serious. Paula’s roommate Kit (Zooey Deschanel) is
skeptical of Trip and every other guy. And it’s the scenes with
these friends that almost save Failure.
Deschanel gives one of the quirkiest, comedic performances of the year
as a dark, goth-like loner who has it out for a noisy mockingbird,
going as far as buying a gun and attempting to kill the singing once
and for all.
Her begrudging relationship with one of
Trip’s friends is terrifically funny, and she comes close to
stealing the film. But what’s a romantic comedy without the
animal world attacking the male lead? Inexplicably, throughout the
entire film Trip is accosted by animals that keep biting him—from
chipmunks to iguanas to dolphins. They do, however, serve to divert us
from the plot, or lack thereof.
McConaughey and Parker both do a descent job. But
the chemistry just isn’t there. And when you find yourself
wanting to see more of the “buddies” you know there’s
a problem. Even Bates and Bradshaw can’t save things (warning:
the following line may make you seriously ill) especially when the
film’s big nude scene features Bradshaw himself. (I warned you.
Now try and get that image out of your head.) The slight twist in a
predictable ending just isn’t clever enough, although I am glad I
waited for the closing credits.
So, McConaughey, it’s time to do what you
asked of your beloved Texas Longhorns football team just before they
won the national championship. “Live the dream.” Take on a
role that means something. (Remember Lone Star?) But don’t worry. I still love ya…kind of.
EXTRAS
Extras on the DVD include a making of and a couple of other things. Nothing special.
Conclusion:
Movie 60% Extras: 40%
|
